The Yanai Family

Beeri and Ivri Yanai stand confidently on a stage at Jordan River Valley, performing in front of an audience. One brother walks forward in a red Adidas shirt, while the other, in a gray T-shirt, stands with his hands on his hips, engaging with the crowd.

For Beeri and Ivri Yanai, the world often felt small. Born with Achromatopsia, a rare visual impairment, they struggled with extreme light sensitivity and poor vision. Fear kept them inside—they avoided the outdoors, never went near a pool, and hesitated to try new things.

By the time they arrived at Jordan River Village, isolation had become routine. But the moment they stepped into camp, something changed.

At JRV, nothing felt out of reach. They swam for the first time, joined activities without hesitation, and moved through camp with confidence they never knew they had. No one focused on what they couldn’t do—only on what they could.

For Beeri, the transformation was even more profound. Shy and hesitant to be in the spotlight, he had always avoided attention. But at JRV, surrounded by encouragement, he did something unimaginable—he stood on stage, participated in the talent show, and even hosted it.

“These boys can’t see a meter and a half ahead, but after JRV, they’re looking far into the future with optimism.”

– Beeri and Ivri’s Mother